The holiday season is a time for celebration, and champagne is a popular beverage of choice for many. Whether you&#39;re looking for a high-end champagne to mark a special occasion or a more approachable option for casual gatherings, there are plenty of choices to consider.&nbsp;

By the way, we love champagne with all kinds of food (seafood, fried chicken, spicy food, etc) and is more than just for a quick toast at midnight.&nbsp;

High-End Champagnes:&nbsp;

When it comes to high-end champagnes, names like <a href="https://www.grapesthewineco.com/wines/MoA-t-and-Chandon-Dom-Perignon-Brut-2013-w87575582p">Dom Perignon</a> and Krug often come to mind. These prestigious champagnes are typically reserved for special occasions and are known for their exceptional quality and craftsmanship. <a href="https://www.grapesthewineco.com/wines/MoA-t-and-Chandon-Dom-Perignon-Brut-2013-w87575582p">Dom Perignon</a> is produced by Moet &amp; Chandon and is named after the Benedictine monk who is often credited with discovering the champagne-making process. Krug, on the other hand, is known for its rich and complex flavors, thanks to its unique production methods, including fermentation in small oak barrels. These won&#39;t disappoint! Yum!!&nbsp;

More Approachable Options:&nbsp;

If you&#39;re looking for a more approachable champagne that still offers great quality, there are plenty of options to consider. <a href="https://www.grapesthewineco.com/wines/Ruinart-Brut-Rose-w2136832vx">Ruinart Rose</a> and <a href="https://www.grapesthewineco.com/wines/Charles-Heidsieck-Brut-Blanc-De-Blancs-w1263779l4">Charles Heidsieck Blanc de Blanc</a> are two examples of champagnes that are well-regarded but are often more affordable than their high-end counterparts. <a href="https://www.grapesthewineco.com/wines/Ruinart-Brut-Rose-w2136832vx">Ruinart Rose</a> is known for its delicate, fruity flavors, while <a href="https://www.grapesthewineco.com/wines/Charles-Heidsieck-Brut-Blanc-De-Blancs-w1263779l4">Charles Heidsieck Blanc de Blanc</a> is a type of champagne made exclusively from Chardonnay grapes, resulting in a crisp and elegant taste. Solid choices!&nbsp;

Blanc de Blanc:

Blanc de Blanc is a term used to describe champagnes that are made exclusively from white grapes, typically Chardonnay. This style of champagne is known for its light and crisp flavors, making it a popular choice for those who prefer a more delicate taste. Blanc de Blanc champagnes are often a great option for pairing with seafood or light appetizers.&nbsp;

Lower-End Examples and Spanish Cava:

If you&#39;re looking for lower-end champagne options, there are plenty of choices to consider. <a href="https://www.grapesthewineco.com/wines/Piper-Heidsieck-Brut-Cuvee-w504046291">Piper-Heidsieck&#39;s Brut Non-Vintage</a> is a great affordable option that still offers great quality and flavor. This champagne is known for its fresh and lively taste, making it a great choice for casual gatherings. In addition to champagne, <a href="https://www.grapesthewineco.com/wines/Gramona-Brut-Corpinnat-Imperial-2017-w91087350j">Spanish Cava</a> is another great option to consider for all budgets. Cava is a sparkling wine that is produced in Spain using the traditional champagne method, and it offers great quality at a more affordable price point.&nbsp;

Whether you&#39;re looking for a high-end champagne to mark a special occasion or a more approachable option for casual gatherings, there are plenty of choices to consider. From prestigious names like <a href="https://www.grapesthewineco.com/wines/MoA-t-and-Chandon-Dom-Perignon-Brut-2013-w87575582p">Dom Perignon</a> and Krug to more affordable options like <a href="https://www.grapesthewineco.com/wines/Ruinart-Brut-Rose-w2136832vx">Ruinart Rose</a> and <a href="https://www.grapesthewineco.com/wines/Gramona-Brut-Corpinnat-Imperial-2017-w91087350j">Spanish Cava</a>, there&#39;s a champagne out there for every taste and budget.&nbsp;

Cheers to the holiday season! #drinkwhatyoulove #bubbles

The holiday season is a time for celebration, and champagne is a popular beverage of choice for many. Whether you're looking for a high-end champagne to mark a special occasion or a more approachable option for casual gatherings, there are plenty of choices to consider.

Bubbles for the Holidays!!

Omakase is experiencing a surge in popularity, let’s dig into what it is and of course what wines to drink.



 Omakase, a term that translates to "I'll leave it up to you" in Japanese, is rapidly gaining popularity in the culinary world. This dining experience places your meal entirely in the hands of the chef, who meticulously crafts each course based on seasonal ingredients and their personal creative flair. It's not just about seafood; while sushi often features prominently due to its status as a cornerstone of Japanese cuisine, an omakase menu can include anything from Wagyu beef to seasonal vegetables.

Omakase and Wine Pairing: A Booming Gastronomic Journey

California Chardonnay: it's a name synonymous with sunshine, buttery richness, and maybe even a splash of white wine envy (looking at you, Bridget Jones). But how did this grape, originally hailing from France, become a Californian icon? Buckle up, because we're diving into the world of CA Chard, from its unexpected origins to the reasons it continues to reign supreme on wine lists.

Buckle up, because we're diving into the world of CA Chard!

Forget everything you think you know about sweet, syrupy wines. Lambrusco is a sparkling red wine from Italy’s Emilia-Romagna region that’s as light and bubbly as a summer day.

Lambrusco: The Party in a Bottle You Need to Try under $25

As the days grow longer and warmer, it's time to trade in your full-bodied reds and crisp whites for a glass of refreshing rosé. This versatile wine is not only perfect for spring but also pairs beautifully with a wide variety of foods all year round.



Rosé originates from France, specifically Provence - the world’s leading rosé region. It has been produced there since 600 BC when Greeks brought vines to southern France. Unlike its red and white counterparts, rosés are made using an array of grape varietals including Grenache, Syrah, Cinsault among others.

Spring into Rosé: The Perfect Wine for Warmer Weather

We are interested in understanding your dining and wine consumption habits to gain valuable insights into the wine and restaurant industry.

State of Wine and Restaurant Survey 2024

Aligoté: Burgundy's Unsung Hero Steps Out of the Shadows

For Chardonnay lovers seeking a refreshing, value-driven alternative, Aligoté, Burgundy's "other" white grape, beckons with its crisp acidity, subtle minerality, and undeniable charm. Often overshadowed by its more illustrious neighbor, Aligoté is finally gaining recognition for its unique qualities and exceptional quality-to-price ratio.

Aligoté: Burgundy's Unsung Hero Steps Out of the Shadows

A Hungarian Legacy: Imagine yourself in Tokaj, Hungary, a region steeped in winemaking tradition. For centuries, Furmint has thrived in its volcanic soil, basking in the warm sunshine. These grapes, loved for their thick skin and high acidity, became the cornerstone of Hungary's most famous wine: Tokaji. These sweet, honeyed treasures were once enjoyed by royalty and popes!

Furmint: Hungary's Hidden Gem for Wine Lovers

Check out these four whites wines under $24, from some great producers across various terroirs – France, Italy, Spain. Spring is in the air.

Four must try white wines for under $24 from France, Spain, and Italy

Eric Asimov's recent article isn't just about the "luxury" of sommeliers vanishing from restaurants. It's a stark warning about the potential collapse of a vibrant corner of our social and cultural ecosystem: the world of wine.

Why the Decline of Sommeliers Is a Crisis for All of Us

Sandbar

Michaela Quinlan, certified sommelier, and Robert Tas review the wine list at Sandbar, New York

Wine List Review of Sandbar, Cold Harbor, New York

Michaela Quinlan

<a href="https://www.sandbarcoldspringharbor.com/menus/#wine-list">https://www.sandbarcoldspringharbor.com/menus/ - wine-list</a>

Sandbar:

RT: Hello and welcome to CorkRules!&nbsp;

A podcast where, in each episode,&nbsp;we will review a wine list from your favorite restaurants. I&rsquo;m your host Robert Tas along with Michaela Quinlan, certified sommelier.

Hello Michaela,&nbsp;it&rsquo;s great to be back together for another episode.

MQ: Hi Robert!

RT: Before we jump in, let&rsquo;s talk about CorkRules.

We created CorkRules to demystify wine lists because we know from experience that sometimes when we get that list handed to us, well&hellip; it can be intimidating, and even a little daunting.

Our aim is to help prepare you to navigate that list, find those hidden gems, or value wines or that special bottle that will take your dining experience over the top.

RT:&nbsp;So, sit back and listen as we review your favorite wine list.

RT: Today we are talking about Sandbar in Cold Spring Harbor, NY. Featuring American cuisine from tavern favorites to local fare from land and sea.

Michaela, I can&rsquo;t wait to hear what you think of their wine list.

MQ: A recipient of the Wine Spectator Award of Excellence, Sandbar&rsquo;s wine list features a beautiful selection of Old World and New World favorites. Enjoy today&rsquo;s selections to pair with Sandbar&rsquo;s award-winning cuisine.

RT: That&rsquo;s really great, as you looked at the list did you see anything jump out at you?

MQ: Let&rsquo;s start local with the 2020 Corey Creek Vineyard Cabernet Franc Blanc from the North Fork of Long Island. Here we have another classic red grape, Cabernet Franc, where the clear juice is extracted to create a standout white wine. This unique white wine features ripe raspberries, ripe peach, Meyer lemon, with a nutty finish. Pair this medium bodied white with tuna, salmon, and herbed proteins.&nbsp;

RT: That is for sure unique. Did you find any others that caught your eye right away?

MQ: if you are looking for a bold, full-bodied red wine, look no further than the 2017 Orin Swift &lsquo;Eight Years in the Desert&rsquo; from CA. This rich, red blend consists of Syrah, Zinfandel, and Petite Syrah and features blackberry jam, ripe fig and prune, with notes of cocoa and chocolate covered strawberries. An excellent companion to richly sauced proteins and pasta.

RT: So Michaela, their list seems to have lots of range but was there anything that you would say is a &ldquo;must-try&rdquo;?

MQ: A must-try Italian white wine is the 2020 Villa Pozzi Grillo from Sicily. I enjoy the Grillo grape for its freshness and bright acidity, and you will always find one for an excellent price. With citrus, grapefruit, and ripe green apple, along with fennel and an almond note on the finish, this white wine is a must-try to pair with shellfish and hard cheese.

RT: These are some great calls.

So you know I&rsquo;m getting thirsty and will need to order a bottle with my dinner, where would you guide us?

MQ: An excellent wine to consider for the table would be the 2016 Ken Wright &lsquo;Guadelupe Vineyard&rsquo; Pinot Noir from the Willamette Valley of Oregon. Ken Wright produces wine from over 13 vineyard sites within the Willamette Valley. This is the &rsquo;Guadelupe Vineyard&rsquo; site. This Pinot Noir features classic ripe cranberries and cherries, but also showcases earth, mushroom, and black olives, and a rich, round finish that is sure to please the table.

&nbsp;RT: Ooh, Terrific. Michaela, speaking of price, sometimes people have a budget in mind.&nbsp; Any other great value wines you&rsquo;d point us to?&nbsp;

MQ: An excellent white wine of quality and value to consider is the 2018 Heritiers de Comte, Lafon, from the Macon region of Burgundy in France. This organic Chardonnay is medium bodied and features white flowers, ripe green apple, ripe pear, with notes of lime zest, and a mineral finish with just a touch of oak. A beautiful Chardonnay to pair with charcuterie, salmon and tuna, all for an excellent price.

RT: That sounds great. What is your other value selection?

MQ: When seeking a quality/value red wine, consider the 2016 Avignoesi Vino Noblie di Montepulciano in Tuscany, Italy. This highly rated, organic red consists of 100% Sangiovese from the region of Montepulciano showcases ripe blackberries, red cherries, clove, sage, violets, with a finish of tobacco and fresh acidity. Pair this can&rsquo;t miss red with herbed proteins and pasta.

RT: Now Michaela, what if I have a big client dinner or special occasion where I want to take it up a notch?

MQ: A standout wine to add to any special occasion is the classic red Burgundy. One to consider would be the 2018 Domaine de la Vougeraie Grand Cru Le Clos du Roi from Burgundy, France. Clos du Roi is one of the finest Crus within Corton in Burgundy which produced this stellar Pinot Noir from vines planted in 1950. Showcasing ripe red cherries, ripe raspberries, lavender, and mint, with tobacco on the lingering finish. A perfect Grand Cru to add to any special occasion.

&nbsp;

RT: Michaela Thank you so much for all your great suggestions and helping us navigate Sandbar&rsquo;s wine list. I can&rsquo;t wait to go try them myself.&nbsp;

To our audience, thank you all for joining us here on CorkRules.

If you would like us to review one of your favorite restaurants, please send us email to: <a href="mailto:Info@corkrules.Com">Info@CorkRules.Com</a> or visit our web website where we have a request form available and we will do our best to get it in the queue as quickly as possible.

We are looking forward to being with you on another CorkRules episode soon. In the meantime, please check out our website for other episodes of your favorite restaurant wine lists.&nbsp;

And finally, drink what you love and please make sure you drink responsibly.

&nbsp;

Thank you.

End

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BRAT

Bocca di Lupe

Gap Weekend: A Film Shoot in Wine Country

Alba Restaurant

Alba

10 Greek Street

L'Auberge Chez Francois

Andrew Edmunds

Salt Seafood and Oyster Bar

Matteos Ristorante Italiano

Matteo's

Hubert Brochard is a family-owned winery located in the heart of the Loire Valley. They specialize in producing high-quality wines that reflect the unique terroir of the region. The winery has been in operation since 1950, and is known for their commitment to sustainable farming practices.

Intimate Italian restaurant with upscale fare, many wines, desserts, and a fixed-price lunch option.

Craft

Craft L.A.

Barbrix

Wally's

The Belvedere

Spago Las Vegas by Wolfgang Puck

Spago

Jeune Et Jolie

Cucina Urbana

Rossoblu

Petit Trois

Cowboy Star

homepage

CorkRules application allows you to discover wines at your favorite restaurants, learn with friends and be confident with price transparency. Order wine with confidence at restaurants and retailers. Get personalized recommendations. #DrinkWhatYouLove

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Blend

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Josh Cellars

Chardonnay 2013

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St Hallett

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Villa Barbi Umbria Rosso 2012

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Miscela

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Tenimenti Ca'Bianca

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Cortese

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Fernhook Estate

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New Zealand

Ruffino

Chianti 2013

Sangiovese

Chianti, Tuscany, Italy

Querciabella

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Sangiovese

Chianti, Tuscany, Italy

Chilensis

Cabernet Sauvignon Reserva 2011

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Fratelli

Lunelli Ferrari Metodo Classico Rose Trentodoc 2014

Trentino-Alto Adige, Italy